Kenya begins its second avocado cycle with rising prices and strong domestic demand

The sector is preparing for a promising second half of the year after overcoming a difficult start, marked by logistical problems and oversupply in Europe.

Avocado growers in Kenya are preparing to begin the second production cycle of the year in the coming weeks, with positive expectations after a challenging start to the season. The crisis in the Red Sea and the fruit glut in Europe dampened exporters' confidence in the first half of 2025, but the situation has changed since August with the recovery of international demand and renewed interest from markets such as Asia, Turkey, and the Persian Gulf.

In addition to external pressures, the booming domestic market is also driving growth, led by the expanding avocado oil industry. Over 30 processing plants have been established in the last two years, now absorbing more than 70% of national production. This phenomenon has not only raised local prices but has also opened opportunities for small farmers who were previously excluded from the export market, allowing them to incorporate green-skinned and local varieties.

With a combination of rising international demand and a strengthened domestic market, the Kenyan fruit sector is facing the second half of the 2025 season with optimism. Prices are already showing an increase of between 10% and 20% compared to last year, and farmers have received up to 130 shillings per kilo for exported fruit. All indications suggest that, following the losses suffered in Morocco, Kenya could become one of the major players in the global supply in the coming months.

Source: freshplaza.es